Reality television personality Amanda Batula received support from her ex-husband Kyle Cooke on Friday as controversy continues to surround her newly confirmed romantic relationship with Summer House costar West Wilson.
Photographs published by Page Six captured Batula, 34, and Cooke, 43, walking their dogs together on Friday. The images show the former couple engaged in conversation on the street, with Cooke embracing Batula at one point during the outing.
The public reunion comes days after Batula and Wilson, 31, officially acknowledged their romantic relationship through a joint Instagram statement posted on Tuesday, March 31. The announcement followed weeks of mounting online speculation regarding the nature of their connection.
"We've seen the growing online speculation, so while this is still very new, we wanted to provide some clarity," the statement read. "It was never our intention to purposely hide anything. Given the complicated relationship dynamics involved and the scrutiny that comes with being on a reality show, we needed a little space to process things privately before speaking on it."
The pair emphasized that their romantic relationship evolved unexpectedly from a longstanding friendship. "We've shown up for each other as friends over the years, through all the highs and lows, and what's developed recently was the last thing either of us expected," they stated. "Our connection grew out of a genuine, longstanding friendship, which made it especially important for us to approach this with care."
The relationship has generated significant public criticism due to Wilson's previous romantic involvement with Ciara Miller, a close friend of Batula and fellow Summer House cast member. Wilson and Miller dated in 2023, creating a complicated interpersonal dynamic among the reality show costars.
Cooke publicly addressed his former wife's new relationship on Wednesday, April 1, expressing concern about the negative attention she has received. Speaking with street journalist Adam Glyn in a video posted to TikTok, Cooke stated, "I'm good. I appreciate people checking in. I'm actually really worried about Amanda, if I'm being honest."
Cooke revealed that Batula had contacted him prior to releasing the statement about her relationship with Wilson. "I talked to her last night, and I understand people have all sorts of opinions, and I'm not justifying any behavior, but, like, from what I'm seeing, she's getting cyberbullied," he explained.
Batula and Cooke announced their separation in January after four years of marriage. The couple issued a joint statement at the time, noting, "After much reflection, we have mutually and amicably decided to part ways as a couple. We share this with a heavy heart and kindly ask for your grace and support while we focus on our personal growth and healing."
The ongoing situation highlights the complex interpersonal relationships that develop among reality television cast members and the intense public scrutiny that accompanies their personal lives. The Friday reunion between Batula and Cooke suggests the former couple has maintained a supportive relationship despite their marital separation.